description Small Blue Overview
The small blue, Cupido minimus, is a small butterfly of the family Lycaenidae found in parts of Europe and western Asia. In Britain it is regarded as the country's smallest native butterfly, with adults showing mainly brown upper wings and blue scales that are more evident in some individuals than others. Its caterpillars depend chiefly on kidney vetch, making the butterfly closely tied to suitable grassland and the presence of that food plant.
help Small Blue FAQ
Why can the Small Blue look brown instead of blue?
The Small Blue is Cupido minimus, and the male has smoky-black upper wings while the female is dark brown. Blue scales are subtle and are easier to notice when the wings are open in good light; the wingspan is roughly 22 to 28 millimeters. [Wiltshire Butterfly Conservation](https://www.wiltshire-butterflies.org.uk/butterfly/view/21)
What plant does the Small Blue caterpillar depend on?
In Britain, its main and often sole food plant is kidney vetch, Anthyllis vulneraria. The female lays eggs on the plant, so colonies usually occur where kidney vetch grows. [Butterfly Conservation](https://butterfly-conservation.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/1.small-blue-psf.pdf)
Where can I find Small Blue butterflies in Britain?
The species favors chalk downland, chalk pits, and embankments, often in small local colonies. Named British sites include Salisbury Plain and Bratton Castle in Wiltshire. [Wiltshire Butterfly Conservation](https://www.wiltshire-butterflies.org.uk/butterfly/view/21)
Why are ants sometimes associated with Small Blue caterpillars?
Small Blue caterpillars are occasionally tended by ants, which may collect sugary secretions from them. This relationship is one reason the butterfly is associated with undisturbed colonies of kidney vetch. [Butterfly Conservation](https://butterfly-conservation.org/sites/default/files/2024-04/1.small-blue-psf.pdf)
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